Post #242158 by Aaron's Akua on Mon, Jul 10, 2006 10:38 PM

JP,

I think you would really dig a polyurethane carver's mallet. You can strike from any angle vs. the rubber mallet which can be pretty awkward. Also the rubber mallet can be pretty bouncy while the polyurethane mallet feels just right! :)- I've not tried the birch mallet (or any other wooden mallet for that matter), but I believe the polyurethane models have less impact transmission to the arm and are generally quieter. Try "Wood is Good", that's my brand and I have seen a lot of other carvers using them as well. I think there's a website link in here somewhere - just do a quick search. They come in 12 & 20 oz (or 30), but it is good to have both (30 is pretty heavy).

I've never thrown the Foredom SR into reverse while it was still spinning, but it can't be good. I'd just pull the plug instead if it's happening a lot. Keep in mind also that the speed control or reverse function isn't necessary or useful if you are using the recip carver handpiece. Just plug it in direct unless you are using spinning tools.

A-A